A dual-diagnostic approach to peripheral nerve disorders helps improve treatment

The Peripheral Nerve Clinic is a subspecialty clinic at Ohio State's Neurological Institute Comprehensive Spine Center. Staff deliver treatments for complex peripheral pain problems within this single clinic setting. Milind Deogaonkar, MBBS, an associate professor in the Department of Neurological Surgery, adds his expertise in neuromodulation to the clinic's comprehensive treatment modalities.

Dr. Deogaonkar provides neuromodulation interventions, such as peripheral nerve stimulation (PNS) and spinal cord stimulation, for patients suffering from pain, which is a common symptom of peripheral nerve conditions. Dr. Deogaonkar's own research has demonstrated the efficacy of PNS for the treatment of postherpetic neuralgia pain management. He has also reported on improved techniques for PNS implantation. In 2013, Dr. Deogaonkar was part of the surgical team at Ohio State that implanted one of the first MRI-safe spinal cord stimulators in the nation.

Dr. Deogaonkar co-directs the Peripheral Nerve Clinic with Clinical Assistant Professor of Neurological Surgery Francis Farhadi, MD, who is an expert in complex reconstructive brachial plexus surgery.

"Peripheral nerve problems require special attention, and we have assembled a multidisciplinary team to provide the best possible care. When patients come in, they are seen by two neurosurgeons – each of whom brings different approaches and perspectives to the problem," says Dr. Deogaonkar. "This makes for a more evolved decision-making process and is an example of our innovative approach to care. Our clinic is the first of its kind in central Ohio."